The key in my 1980 Corvette will not turn. It worked fine yesterday. I had the same problem with it twice over the last few months but taking the key out and reinserting it seemed to do the trick. Now it will not turn at all. I jiggled the wheel and tapped on the lock and column (trying to jar the tumblers)but to no avail. I'm pretty sure I have to replace the lock cylinder. Do I have to remove the steering wheel or take apart the column? Any tips on how to remove and replace the lock cylinder would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
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Re: 1980 Corvette ignition lock cylinder
Darrell,
Do you have a key number for your lock? This number is on the original key and if you have that number I would try to have a new key cut for your lock first. It would save a lot of work if the lock was good but your key just wore down.
If you have to remove your lock to replace it or have a new key cut from the number on the lock you will have to remove not only your steering wheel but several things before getting to the screw that holds you lock in the column.
The lock is a "Sidebar" type of lock with springs on both sides of the brass inserts that you call tumblers. It is hard to jar or pick this type of lock.
If you have a repair manual look up changing the turn signal switch in a tilt wheel GM car or truck and this should help you through the disassembly of the column.
Basically you need to remove the horn button, steeling wheel, security plate & horn contact. You take the signal switch loose and set it aside, remove the contact switch and then the screw holding the key into the column.
To remove most of the parts is an easy process using care not to damage anything. There are at least 2 tool that are needed to do the job. A steering wheel puller and a locking security plate depressor.
If you need more details or some help walking through a disassembly please e-mail me and I will help you all I can.
Tony -
Re: 1980 Corvette ignition lock cylinder
Darrell,
Do you have a key number for your lock? This number is on the original key and if you have that number I would try to have a new key cut for your lock first. It would save a lot of work if the lock was good but your key just wore down.
If you have to remove your lock to replace it or have a new key cut from the number on the lock you will have to remove not only your steering wheel but several things before getting to the screw that holds you lock in the column.
The lock is a "Sidebar" type of lock with springs on both sides of the brass inserts that you call tumblers. It is hard to jar or pick this type of lock.
If you have a repair manual look up changing the turn signal switch in a tilt wheel GM car or truck and this should help you through the disassembly of the column.
Basically you need to remove the horn button, steeling wheel, security plate & horn contact. You take the signal switch loose and set it aside, remove the contact switch and then the screw holding the key into the column.
To remove most of the parts is an easy process using care not to damage anything. There are at least 2 tool that are needed to do the job. A steering wheel puller and a locking security plate depressor.
If you need more details or some help walking through a disassembly please e-mail me and I will help you all I can.
TonyComment
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Re: 1980 Corvette ignition lock cylinder
Is your backdrive cable from the transmission to the lever at the bottom of the steering column in place and properly adjusted? If it has come adrift or the adjustment has slipped, you won't be able to turn the lock cylinder no matter what kind of key you have.Comment
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Re: 1980 Corvette ignition lock cylinder
Is your backdrive cable from the transmission to the lever at the bottom of the steering column in place and properly adjusted? If it has come adrift or the adjustment has slipped, you won't be able to turn the lock cylinder no matter what kind of key you have.Comment
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Re: 1980 Corvette ignition lock cylinder
I agree with Tony, try the new key first. It is the cheapest and easiest option. It worked for me with a similar problem.Mike RobbComment
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Re: 1980 Corvette ignition lock cylinder
I agree with Tony, try the new key first. It is the cheapest and easiest option. It worked for me with a similar problem.Mike RobbComment
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Re: 1980 Corvette ignition lock cylinder
I have tried both keys that came with the car but neither is original. Someone told me to try some lock lubricant or WD40 in the lock. Anyone ever have any luck with this method before I go ahead and try it?Comment
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Re: 1980 Corvette ignition lock cylinder
I have tried both keys that came with the car but neither is original. Someone told me to try some lock lubricant or WD40 in the lock. Anyone ever have any luck with this method before I go ahead and try it?Comment
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